Your brushing and flossing routine is spot on, but you want to make sure that you are being thorough with your oral hygiene in the morning and at night. Learning that it is beneficial to use a dental rinse each day to flush out any remaining food debris and bad bacteria, you decide to start incorporating this third step. But how much mouthwash should you use? When it is safe to start, and what is important to know before rinsing with this type of product? Read on to find out.
Why is Mouthwash Important for Good Oral Health?
Designed to serve as one of the three important steps in a person’s oral hygiene routine, using mouthwash can be beneficial in eliminating cavity- and germ-causing bacteria. Because of its ability to reduce plaque and effectively flush out debris left behind after brushing and flossing, it is strongly encouraged that patients incorporate this component each day.
The most common type of mouthwash is an antiseptic but many on the market target particular oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay.
When Should Mouthwash Start Being Added to an Oral Hygiene Routine?
While using mouthwash is beneficial for most adults, children should not begin adding it to their oral hygiene routine until they reach the age of 12. However, the American Dental Association believes it is safe to use as long as children are over the age of 6.
The reason is that there is a risk that they might accidentally swallow it. Ingesting any type of mouthwash regularly is not good for anyone of any age, and brushing and flossing should be enough to combat cavities and tooth decay in growing smiles.
How Should Mouthwash Be Properly Used?
Although some people use mouthwash at the beginning of their oral hygiene routine, it is recommended that it be used at the end instead. Individuals can start by brushing their teeth before moving on to flossing. When finished, it is important that the person read the instructions on the bottle before pouring the directed amount into the designated cup.
Typically, a person should dispense between three and five teaspoons before pouring the contents into their mouth. Instead of swallowing the substance, individuals should swish and gargle for 30 seconds. When finished, the person should spit out the contents into the sink.
Adding a healthy mouthwash to your morning and nighttime oral hygiene routine can help to take your smile to the next level. Not only will it improve your breath, but it will further reduce your risk for cavities and gum disease, keeping your pearly whites and soft oral tissues safe day after day.
About the Practice
DuPont Family Dentistry is pleased to have four skilled professionals who believe in the power of preventive care. Offering beneficial services that are designed to combat and minimize the potential for serious oral health issues, our team can discuss tips and tricks to ensure good dental habits at home, including the use of mouthwash to flush out existing bacteria. Contact us at (253) 964-7000 to learn how we can help you fine-tune your at-home oral hygiene routine.